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2019 Kia Forte VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2019 KIA Forte has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 140 owner complaints on file for the 2019 KIA Forte. Severity signals include 11 crash-related complaints and 4 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (45), Engine (19), Electrical System (18).

Forte reliability snapshot

67/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.0/5
RepairPal rating (high)
$451
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#6/36
Ranking in compact cars · better than 83% of peers

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the KIA Forte before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Most-reported 2019 KIA Forte issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Power Train45
  • Engine19
  • Electrical System18
  • Unknown Or Other14
  • Exterior Lighting8
  • Steering8

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2019 KIA Forte

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • Inspect transmission for smooth shifting and acceleration
  • Check for any engine warning lights or unusual noises
  • Test forward collision avoidance system for proper function
  • Verify that all exterior lights are operational and not melted
  • Check for any signs of oil leaks or excessive oil consumption
  • Test steering for any unusual noises or resistance
  • Ensure the vehicle has no outstanding recalls, especially for powertrain issues

2019 Forte recalls (2)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2019 Forte. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. POWER TRAINNHTSA 20V459000Aug 5, 2020

    Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Forte vehicles. The left front axle driveshaft may not have been heat-treated, which can cause it to break.

    Consequence: A broken driveshaft can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the left front axle driveshaft for a heat treatment verification code, and replace it if the code is missing, free of charge. The recall began September 2, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC195.

  2. EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 18V771000Oct 31, 2018

    Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Kia Forte vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The headlights may not have been manufactured with the correct low beam aiming. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

    Consequence: If the headlights are not properly aimed, the driver may have reduced visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlight aiming and replace the headlights, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC171.

Used-market value

2019 KIA Forte resale snapshot

76.3%estimated value retained after 5 years
600listings in the model-level benchmark
$14,890median asking price from 60 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

2019 KIA Forte on the road

95,683 2019 KIA Forte units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2019 KIA Forte stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Reliability verdict for the 2019 Kia Forte

The 2019 KIA Forte demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, indicating a lower level of systemic issues. However, complaints are somewhat concentrated, particularly in the power train category, which could suggest potential concerns in that area.

The distribution of complaints across other categories like the engine and electrical systems is less pronounced, but still notable. As the first year of a new generation, some teething problems are expected, yet the overall complaint volume remains manageable.

In summary, the 2019 KIA Forte presents an above-average reliability profile with moderate buyer risk, mainly due to the concentration of power train complaints.

What you get in a 2019 Kia Forte report

NMVTIS title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2019 Kia Forte — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2019 Kia Forte reliable?

The 2019 KIA Forte demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, indicating a lower level of systemic issues. However, complaints are somewhat concentrated, particularly in the power train category, which could suggest potential concerns in that area.

How many recalls does the 2019 Kia Forte have?

2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2019 Kia Forte. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2019 Kia Forte problems?

The most-reported 2019 Kia Forte problem areas are: Power Train (45), Engine (19), Electrical System (18).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2019 Kia Forte?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2019 Kia Forte, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.